Abstract [en]

Purpose: This study aimed to increase understanding by management, teachers and healthcoordinators regarding the role of health coordinators in schools and to investigate schools’responsibility in promoting student health and well-being. The aim was also to identify thestrengths and barriers of health coordinators regarding implementation of a program ofaction.

Methods: Based on semi-structured interview guides, three qualitative focus groupinterviews and four individual interviews were conducted with managers, teachers andhealth coordinators at a total of four schools. The method of analysis wasphenomenography.

Results: 4 categories and 12 subcategories were developed. Categoriesincluded (i) the school has a task, (ii) an important key person, (iii) management matters,and (iv) it makes a difference. All informants agreed that school plays a meaningful role inpromoting children’s health and well-being. The informants use the broad and positivehealth concept exemplified by the World Health Organization. The measure must bemultifaceted, demand a clear priority, and provide an extensive implementation period. Theteachers as health coordinators must have the right qualifications and operate within a fixedstructure. Management predominantly viewed health coordinators as supportive, andteachers expected health coordinators to maintain focus and support them in their jobs.When describing their experiences and knowledge, health coordinators frequently usedhealth promotion and education terminology. They also viewed leaders’ support as essential.The results show a positive change in attitude toward the health coordinator function anddescribe different initiatives implemented by health coordinators.

Conclusion: Promoting health and well-being in schools is a meaningful job that requiresschools to provide clear political and managerial priorities and sufficient time forimplementation. All informants recognized the usefulness of the health coordinator’s role.Informants recognized that the setting approach includes many elements that provide asuitable frame for continued effort.